97 Toyota Camry Loose Door

1997 TOYOTA CAMRY
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97TOYOTA
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Hi. The back driver-side door of my 1997 Toyota Camry (163k mi, 4 cyl 2.2l) is loose. It does not close flush with the rest of the car. It does not open by itself (yet), but is loose enough to activate the inside dome light. Can I fix it myself? If so, how?

Thank you.
Mar 7, 2007 at 12:30 PM
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MMPRINCE3000
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There should be a "striker" bolt on the door jamb. This could have come loose or be worn out. They unscrew and there is some adjustment. If the striker is OK then it may be the door locking mechanism or the hinges.
Mar 8, 2007 at 6:58 AM
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97TOYOTA
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Thanks, you got me started in the right direction. I had to look up which part is the striking plate (very novice mechanic). Then I found Autozone.com, which gave great schematics and directions for how to adjust the door It did the trick.

I wouldn't have known where to start without your help. I have "tipped" 2CarPros.com for the help.
Mar 8, 2007 at 4:46 PM
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97TOYOTA
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I forgot to mention, for anyone who is using this as a guide, that I needed a special 6-pointed star screw driver for the striking plate on my 97 Toyota. Luckily we had it.
Mar 8, 2007 at 4:48 PM
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